25th November 2024
A cornerstone of Ocean Ecology’s business is our marine sediment analysis service which processes samples to both national and international standards for clients around the UK and beyond.
Until recently, this in-house suite of services was entirely conducted from a dedicated laboratory at our Gloucester base. But due to increased demand, we have increased our capacity and established a new sediment laboratory in Oban.
Practical guidance on how to set up this fundamentally important operation, came from Principal Sediment Specialist Kate Llewellin, who oversees the analysis undertaken at the Gloucester laboratory.
Kate’s visits to Oban helped with practical planning of the lab as well as staff training, where her experience in the field allowed her to pass on valuable advice.
When Ocean Ecology first established an in-house sediment analysis service, it was on a much smaller scale.
“I joined Ocean Ecology six years ago,” said Kate.
“But the sheer volume we deal with now is remarkable – we currently have one project alone that’s generating 1,000 samples for analysis.
“So the new Oban lab is important. It increases our capacity and makes it easier for the business to expand further, especially since it is on the doorstep of our ever-growing aquaculture client base in Scotland.”
Ideal for northerly projects
It may also reduce our carbon footprint, with the potential for samples from more northerly projects to go to Oban rather than be transported further afield to Gloucester.
Technical Director Ross Griffin added: “Sediment analysis is an important service and it’s so much more reliable if we’re providing it in-house.
“Kate’s used to training staff in Gloucester and her experience in this field is extensive. She has been invaluable in passing on practical tips to the team in Oban, as well as helping with the practicalities of setting up the operation.
“Kate deserves a huge amount of credit for the development of our sediment analysis service. I doubt there are many others in the industry who process more samples than her!”
Marine mammal observer
But it wasn’t originally Kate’s goal to work in this field. Having a BSc from Plymouth in Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology and a Master’s from Bangor in Marine Mammal Science, she’d set her heart on a career as a marine mammal observer.
“I simply got too seasick,” she explained.
“So, I was unemployed for several years and had started retraining but suddenly this job came up with Ocean Ecology and it’s worked out really well. I did my MMO training and got experience in PAM with the company. I did go out with the team once for a survey of grey and harbour seals, which was great but I was shore-based.”
And in her role as Principal Sediment Specialist, she’s still able to keep one foot in the marine world … while the other is very firmly planted on dry land.
